It is easy to feel the world is in constant turmoil, especially living in a time when news rolls in around the clock, from all corners of the globe. But let’s take a moment to remember the good, especially within our very own community. Yesterday saw the opening of the new Eaglehawk Regional Play Space, including an area in tribute to murdered Bendigo baby Zayden Veal-Whitting. Little Zayden’s death came from the most unthinkable of crimes, but the tragedy has brought out some of the best in the residents of Bendigo and surrounds. The 10-month-old’s family and their friends have worked alongside the City of Greater Bendigo for nearly five years to create a place for the community to enjoy. They have been supported in their efforts by several community groups and businesses, together contributing more than $130,000 to the $1.3 million project. The project was also born of a touching and selfless idea on the part of Zayden’s family: they wanted not only to create a memorial to Zayden, but a place for all families who’d lost a young child. Also at the weekend was the Zonta Club’s annual birthing kit assembly day, during which members and other residents come together to put together kits that help keep mothers and babies living in less fortunate places safe and healthy during birth. It saw dozens of community members attend to help out, giving their time and energy to a cause that will assist women and children they will probably never meet. And the popular Grill’d fundraising event Community Matters also took place. At the time of writing, the burger restaurant had raised more than $40,000 in less than three days from purchases, with funds to go towards Bendigo Health, the OTIS Foundation and Women in Sport. Of course, it is no secret that the Bendigo area is home to many generous and community-minded individuals: there is a long history of giving in this community. But it is nice to have the reminder there is a lot of good in the world, especially around here. - Natalie Croxon, journalist

Editorial: Community generosity a light in dark

The family of baby Zayden Veal-Whitting, who have taken their heartbreaking loss and made something to benefit the community. Picture: DARREN HOWE

It is easy to feel the world is in constant turmoil, especially living in a time when news rolls in around the clock, from all corners of the globe.

But let’s take a moment to remember the good, especially within our very own community.

Yesterday saw the opening of the new Eaglehawk Regional Play Space, including an area in tribute to murdered Bendigo baby Zayden Veal-Whitting.

Little Zayden’s death came from the most unthinkable of crimes, but the tragedy has brought out some of the best in the residents of Bendigo and surrounds.

The 10-month-old’s family and their friends have worked alongside the City of Greater Bendigo for nearly five years to create a place for the community to enjoy.

They have been supported in their efforts by several community groups and businesses, together contributing more than $130,000 to the $1.3 million project.

The project was also born of a touching and selfless idea on the part of Zayden’s family: they wanted not only to create a memorial to Zayden, but a place for all families who’d lost a young child.

Also at the weekend was the Zonta Club’s annual birthing kit assembly day, during which members and other residents come together to put together kits that help keep mothers and babies living in less fortunate places safe and healthy during birth.

It saw dozens of community members attend to help out, giving their time and energy to a cause that will assist women and children they will probably never meet.

And the popular Grill’d fundraising event Community Matters also took place.

At the time of writing, the burger restaurant had raised more than $40,000 in less than three days from purchases, with funds to go towards Bendigo Health, the OTIS Foundation and Women in Sport.

Of course, it is no secret that the Bendigo area is home to many generous and community-minded individuals: there is a long history of giving in this community. But it is nice to have the reminder there is a lot of good in the world, especially around here.